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Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.

There are many different solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.





Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. remote car key repairs are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide many other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having issues getting started in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.

Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is blade style or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.